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About the song and about tablature. You can find tablatures below the description.
Ding Dong Merrily on High is a song that encapsulates the joy and exuberance of the Christmas season, making it a perfect choice for those looking to expand their holiday repertoire on the kalimba. This piece, with its origins tracing back to the 16th century, was first published in its modern form in George Ratcliffe Woodward’s “The Cambridge Carol-Book” in 1924. The melody, believed to be derived from a French dance tune called “Branle de l’Official,” is paired with Woodward’s lyrics that vividly describe the celebration of the birth of Jesus, with the chorus “Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis!” echoing the angels’ message. This exultant carol, with its buoyant rhythm and jubilant chorus, is a spirited piece that resonates with people of all ages, making it an enriching addition to any kalimba player’s collection, whether they are a beginner or more experienced.
For those embarking on their kalimba journey, Ding Dong Merrily on High presents an excellent opportunity to practice and perfect their skills using number notation. The kalimba songbook for beginners, featuring easy-to-follow number notes sheet music, offers an accessible way for anyone to learn this classic carol. This approach, focusing on playing kalimba by number, is particularly beneficial for kids and adults alike, providing a simple yet effective method for learning to play the kalimba without the need to decipher traditional music notation. The song, with its cheerful melody and festive spirit, not only serves as a delightful musical exercise but also immerses the player in a piece of Christmas tradition. The kalimba learning book for adults and kids includes this song among its kalimba exercises for beginners, making it an ideal piece for holiday gatherings or personal enjoyment, promising to fill the air with the unmistakable warmth and cheer of the Christmas season.
Some of the notes on our website contain the full version of the song, and some are excerpts, or for example the very beginning, chorus or verse, etc. Full versions of all the notes can be found in our books and e-books: SHOP.